2024 Top Colleges for Protective Services in the Washington, D.C. Area

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  4,940 reviews

Freshman: Although my experience with George Mason University is still relatively early on, I can attest that GMU has thorough communication from not only their website, but with the academic advisor. The website is easy to navigate and inviting. We also have visited the campus on several occasions for a spring orientation and then the main freshman orientation event. Both orientation sessions were very organized from the beginning with what to expect before arriving until the completion of the event. During the orientation, we had the pleasure of meeting faculty and students who truly enjoyed their job of welcoming us to the university. We enjoyed the tour of the campus, housing and dining areas. All of the dining halls provided exceptional food variety and can say everything we ate was delicious! GMU has been provided us with nothing but stellar experiences despite the challenges of the ever changing post pandemic lifestyle on campus.... Read 4,940 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  35 reviews

Sophomore: What I enjoy the most is the flexibilty the university offers. The school students a self pace program that allows students to fit classes to their busy schedule. The staff and techs are very military friendly and support the service members. I attend college on line and would not change anything, all my experiences have been great.... Read 35 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,075

• SAT range —

• Annandale, VA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  2,916 reviews

Freshman: Overall, my experience with NOVA has been positive. I appreciated the range of courses and programs offered, which allowed me to explore different areas of study and find my academic interests. The professors at NOVA were knowledgeable and approachable, always willing to provide guidance and support. There were ample resources available for students, such as the library and computer labs. However, there are a few areas where I would like to see some changes. I believe NOVA could benefit from enhancing its career services and internship opportunities for students. While there were resources available, they could be more robust and better advertised to ensure students are aware of the various professional development opportunities. My overall experience with Northern Virginia Community College was positive. However, improvements in the class registration process and career services would enhance the overall experience at the college.... Read 2,916 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,627

• SAT range —

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,205 reviews

Alum: I only attended GW for my final year of grad school (and entirely online because of COVID), but I absolutely loved all of the professors, students, and content that I came into contact with through the university. GWU was actually a very close second in my choices for undergrad, and I sometimes still wish I had chosen GW. The location is ideal for many majors and the city environment can be especially fruitful for those seeking to adapt to or continue to enjoy the more vibrant city life (as opposed to more rural campuses). The international and political exposure are particularly exceptional here. Overall, I’m very proud to have graduated from this wonderful institution. I think their excellent Student Success Services staff and generous financial aid alone show an impressive commitment to their students. Raise High!... Read 2,205 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 50%

• Net price $31,240

• SAT range 1310-1490

• Rockville, MD•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,740 reviews

Other: During my time, in school, I wanted to challenge myself and get a headstart on college. So I decided to explore the option of enrollment at Montgomery College. The application process was quite demanding. I found it worthwhile because of the flexibility in class timings and the opportunity to earn college credits. Once I got enrolled I appreciated how flexible the class timings were, for example, my distance learning Film110 course. This allowed me to effectively tailor my study schedule according to my needs. The ability to earn college credits while in school turned out to be incredibly valuable as it reduced the burden of pursuing a degree in the future. The nurturing environment at Montgomery College along with professors who provided unwavering support throughout my journey made a difference. This experience has not just prepared me for academic challenges but has also fueled my career aspirations.... Read 1,740 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,560

• SAT range —

• Largo, MD•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,160 reviews

Freshman: Prince George's Community College is the besttt! It's like the coolest place to learn and grow. The teachers are super dedicated and totally want you to succeed. They've got all kinds of awesome programs that fit your interests and future plans. The campus is top-notch with all the latest stuff you need to make the most of your education. But you know what's the best part? The vibe is totally friendly and inclusive. You make friends left and right because everyone's so cool and nice. Prince George's Community College is like a powerhouse of awesomeness, making a real impact on students and the whole community!... Read 1,160 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,291

• SAT range —

• La Plata, MD•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  778 reviews

Freshman: Attending CSM has been amazing so far. I did take a break for about 2 years, but I am so glad I've returned. The teachers have been nothing but helpful in my journey towards my academic goals and the overall sense of community is just amazing! I would like to maybe see a change in the hours that the school book store is and maybe if they would be able to carry books instore that would be helpful to some students.... Read 778 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,549

• SAT range —

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  631 reviews

Junior: While being a student at UDC, I have developed many skills such as interpersonal skills, computer literacy, critical thinking, and written/ oral communication skills that will help me further my education and become a better person off campus. The campus is very interactive with the students when it comes to homecoming, basketball games, and other activities outside of sports. Even though my school is a smaller HBCU, the Firebird pride is big and strong! The Academic Department of UDC is also great, the professors and advisers are very helpful to push you toward your end goals and even long-term goals after graduating. They mold each student to be a leader for their community and help all students understand and grow in each skill. UDC is one of many HBCUs that want to see their students progress inside and outside the classroom.... Read 631 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,354

• SAT range —